1977 Fiat 131 vs. 2003 Dodge Neon
To start off, 2003 Dodge Neon is newer by 26 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1977 Fiat 131. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1977 Fiat 131 would be higher. At 1,796 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Dodge Neon is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Dodge Neon (114 HP @ 5750 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 1977 Fiat 131. (64 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Neon should accelerate faster than 1977 Fiat 131.
Because 1977 Fiat 131 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 1977 Fiat 131. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Dodge Neon, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2003 Dodge Neon (152 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 1977 Fiat 131. (102 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Dodge Neon will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1977 Fiat 131. 2003 Dodge Neon has automatic transmission and 1977 Fiat 131 has manual transmission. 1977 Fiat 131 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Dodge Neon will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1977 Fiat 131 | 2003 Dodge Neon | |
| Make | Fiat | Dodge |
| Model | 131 | Neon |
| Year Released | 1977 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1297 cc | 1796 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 64 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5750 RPM |
| Torque | 102 Nm | 152 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Length | 4270 mm | 4370 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1660 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1380 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2650 mm |
